Wf)t Spirit of 2rf)e l^oanofee 

A Pageant of Halifax County History 



Glass 
Book 




JUJ:? 



I^ije spirit of VL^t ^oamkt 



A Pageant of Halifax County History 

DESIGNED AND WRITTEN IN 
COLLABORATION BY 

JIalifax Countp ^eacljers 

UNDER THE DIRECTION OF 

A. E. AKERS 

County Superintendent 



ANNIE M. CHERRY 

Supervisor of Rural Schools 



WITH THE CO-OPERATION OF THE DIVISION OF COMMUNITY 

DRAMA OF THE BUREAU OF EXTENSION OF THE 

UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA 




HALIFAX 
COAT OF ARMS 



Jleralb ^ublis(f)ing Company 

ROANOKE RAPIDS, N. C. 
MCMXXI 



Dedicated to 

THE YOUTH OF HALIFAX COUNTY 

The Love of Yesterday, the Pride of Today and the 

Citizen of Tomorrow, in Memory of the 

County's Great Builders 

"r/ie Vision raised his blade, and iraved them on rrith 'Lo, the dawn.' " — Stockard 



Contents^ 

PAGE 

Foreword 3 

The Production of the Pageant 7 

The Committees of the Pageant S 

The Pageant Players 9 

The Prologue: The Springing of the Waters 15 

The First Part: Indian and Pioneer Period 17 

Episode I : The Tuscaroras Bid Farewell to Morotuck, 

The River of Death 19 

The Interlude: The Guardian Waters 25 

The Second Part: The Revolutionary Period . ... 29 

Episode I : The First Constitutional Convention . 31 

Interlude 35 

Episode II: The British in Halifax 37 

Interlude ^-'^ 

Episode III: The Lafayette Ball 47 

The Interlude: The Turbulent Waters 51 

The Third Part: The Civil War Period 53 

Episode I: The Departure of Scotland Neck Mounted 

Riflemen 55 

Interlude 59 

Episode II: The Soldiers in Camp 61 

The Epilogue: The Mingling of the Waters . ... 67 



E 2a pii>^ 




Halifx Cov/vty 
N C. 



S l^ural Community pageant 

THE importance of recreation in country communities can hardly 
be overemphasized. It is a vital social need in the lives of the 
people, separated as they are from each other by their rural conditions, 
and living i^emote from the city centers. Whatever may l)e done in 
bringing them together for wholesome enjoyment will help materially 
in meeting this need, in satisfying their craving for constructive social 
relations and for genuine community expression. 

The school is the natural meeting place of the people and the 
accomplishment of the schools of Halifax County in such a worthy 
endeavor as this historical Pageant is promising indeed. For exper- 
ience has proved again and again that when the right sort of recreation 
is provided the community will take on a new civic life. If the people 
can be brought together in play it will not be difficult to bring them 
together in striving for the common good of the community in which 
they live. 

This Pageant of Halifax County History was written by teachers 
from the four different groups into which the County Schools are 
divided. When Miss Annie M. Cherry, the Rural School Supervisor of 
the County, began to plan the Pageant, she called together a number 
of teachers from each of the four groups. Together they outlined 
the plan. Then they went back into the various sections of the County, 
which they represented, and worked out the episode assigned them. 
Each of the four groups included from five to eight different school 
communities bound together by common interest and loyalty to that 
group. Always the outline of the whole was consulted. The Pageant 
was further unified by the Prologue, Interludes and Epilogue, written 
by Miss Marjorie Craig, Principal of the Dawson School from the 
Hobgood group. So absorbed have the communities become in the 
production of the Pageant that group commencements have been 
given over this year to the practice of the various episodes. All the 
schools have joined in searching for historical costumes and properties 
and learning all that is possible about their episode in the Pageant of 
Halifax County. Tiie Pageant will be produced on May 6 at Weldon. 
Here on the Roanoke River, which plays so large a part in the making 
of their history, the people from all parts of the County will gather to 
commemorate their heroic past and to look together toward a greater 
future for thci]- County. 



Hural pageantry is a form of recreation designed to give ex})res- 
sion to the whole county connnunity. It is a play-form uniting the 
folk of all the countryside — not simply of a single village, town, or 
city — l)ut the whole people. It has sound educational values. It 
teaches no abstract lesson in history; it is a play, ratlier, vivid and 
colorful, of th(> life of the ])eo]>le. It is conceived })y the p(>ople them- 
selves and dedicated ])y them to the common welfare, it points the 
way with new vision toward the nuiking of a better connnunity in 
wliich to li\'e. It is a living drama of their historic traditions, de- 
sign(Hl to (juicken local pride in the pioneer past, to show its vital 
relation to the jiresent, and to incite the ])opular imagination toward 
a higher civic achievement in the future. 

The taste of the people is fundamentally sound and only needs 
the right sort of direction to express itself in terms of constructive 
imagination, in forms of beauty. A Pagcanl of Halifax County is a 
worthy i)ioneer in North Carolina in Hural Connnunity Drama by 
co-operative authorship. Such local pageants as this one may make 
a significant contribution to the development of oiu- popular dramatic 
tradition, may conti-ibute somewhat toward an ex]>ression of our 
national life in a new drama of the people. 

Frederick Henry Koch. 

Chapel Hill, Nohth Carolina. 

April 11, 1921. 



^\)t ^robuction of Ctje pageant 



THE DIRECTORS 
A. E. Akers Annie M. Cherry 

THE WRITER OF LYRICS 
Marjorie Craig 

THE PAGEANT WRITERS 

Helen Burch jNIarjorie Craig 

Jeannette Snead Daniel Jessie L. Hodges 

Lucy Forlaw Nannie E. Pigg 

Kathleen Moore Annie Lee Stafford 

Ruby Sisk Rev. Lewis N. Taylor 
Kathleen Strickler 

THE LEADERS OF THE CHORUS 
Martha Bowers Lucy Crisp 

Julia Cunningham ^ Margaret Kinlaw 

THE LEADER OF THE ORCHESTRA 
Robert Shaw 

THE LEADERS OF THE DANCING 
Claude A. Boseman Lucy Crisp 

Emma Dunn Bess Edwards 

Mary Ervin Kathleen Moore 

Lucy Forlaw Mrs. Frank Nash 

Mary S. Riddick Annie S. Workman 



VL\)t Committeesi of Cfje |3ageant 



THE PRODUCTION COMMITTEE 

Miss Elizabeth Lay, rniversity of North (^irolina, Chairman 
Miss Axnik AVorkman ]\Irs. A. L. Purrixgton 

THE PUBLICITY COMMITTEE 

Mr. Norfleet 8. Saiith, Chairman 

Miss Gladys Cox Mrs. W. E. Daxiel 

Mh. I). Mac Johxsox 

THE BOOK COMMITTEE 

Mr. F. M. Shute, Chairman 

Miss Alice Coleman Miss Marjorie Mexdexhall 

Miss Mary Bobbitt Powell 



THE COSTUME COMMITTEE 



Mrs. J. D. Bellamy 
Mrs. Watson Bowers 
Mrs. Robert Brown 
Mrs. Daniel B. Byrd 
Mr. W. B. Edwards 
Mrs. Paul Hawkins 
Mrs. W. M. Hockaday 
Mr. D. Mac Johnson 
Miss Mary .Joyce 
Mrs. S. H. Lane 
Mrs. Chas. Marks 
Miss Mixxie Morris 
Miss Sik B. Overstree 
Mrs. a. L. Pirrixoton 
Miss Mary S. Piddick 
Mrs. R. a. Ro(;i;us 
Mrs. Fraxk Taylor 
Mrs. \\.i\. Wii.i.KY 

Miss 



Chairmex 

AIrs. a. (i. Bowdex 
Mrs. N. Braswell 
Mrs. W. F. Butterworth 
Mrs. S. M. Gary 
Mrs. Marvin Harris 
Miss Margaret Hayes 
Mrs. M. a. Huggixs 
Mrs. J. ]\I. Jackson 
Miss Faxxie Joyner 
Mr. Paul Lawrence 
Mrs. C. L. Lewis 
Miss Mattie McArthur 

r Mrs. D. S. Moss 

Miss Mamie Pittman 
Miss Clemie Pead 
Miss Annie Roblnsox 
Miss Ruby Sisk 
Miss Huhy Whitaker 

J ilia Willlvms 



Cfje pageant diapers 



THE PKOLOCiUE, THE LNTERLUDES, AND THE EPILOGUE 

The Spirit of the Roanoke Annie Lee Stafford 

The Attendant Water-Sprites . .Thurma Barclay, Annie Sue Britton, Elizabeth 

Colville, Helen Jenkins, Nettie Mae Johnson, 
Nellie Morris, PearlOutland, Mary Lee Tliomason, 
Laura Bell Tunstall, Meri/l Yoder. 



THE LIRST PART: THE INDL\N AND PIONEER DAYS 

Episode 1 : Tlie Tuscaroras Bid Farewell to Morotuck [Roanoke River], 1713. 

Played by the Harclrawee Group [seven rural schools] 

and Enfield. 

Big Chief Black Feather D. Mac Johnson 

A Brave J. E. Lawrence 

An Indian Scout Frank Hargrove 

A Pioneer A. W. Andleton 

A White Scout Thomas Braswell 

Pioneer Men, Women and Children; Indian Warriors, Squaws, Maidens and 
Children; The Indian Dancers 

THE SECOND PART: THE RE\()LITI()NARY PERIOD 

Episode I: The First Constitutional Convention, December, 177 h'. 

Played by the Aurelian Springs Group [eight rural schools] and 

Roanoke Rai:)ids. 

Willie [Wiley] Jones Marvin Harris 

Cornelius Harnett Reverend L. D. Hayman 

First Speaker W.C.Myrick 

Second Speaker Reverend N . H . Shepherd 

The Minister Reverend G. Stanley W/dte 

The Chorus of Freedom, The Birthkicht. 



10 The SriKiT of tjie Hoanoke 

Episode II. The British in Ilaiifax, M(i]/, 17S1. 

Played by the Halifax Groui) [scvoii rural .sclioolsl and Wcldon. 

Governor Nash Ruleic/h T. Daniel 

General Allen Jones Charles Daniel 

Flora McDonald Veritas Sanders 

Sarah Jones Lucy Forlaw 

Major Davie G. H. Suiter 

A Patriot Scout Fletcher Gregory 

The Sentry Earl Rook 

A Townswoman Emma Dunn 

A Townsman Sam Warren 

Tarleton Basil Glover 

CoRNWALLis Thomas Dickens 

Miss Bishop Ruby Sisk 

Mrs. Willie Jones Mary Young Bass 

Mrs. John AsHK Nellie Haynes Gregory 

A British Scout Edward Rhea 

A British Private Richard Brown 

Guards . . . Daniel B. Byrd, Dana Dickens, Thomas Mcdlin, Meade Mitchell 

The British Soldiers 

The Patriot Soldiers 

The Citizens of Halifax; Men, Woiueu and Children. 

Episode III: The Lafayette Ball, February, 27, 1825. 
Played by the Halifax Group [seven rural schools] and Weldon 

Lafayette Sterling M. Gary 

Lafayette's Sox Robert Dickens 

Mrs. Nicholas Long Ursula Daniel 

Mrs. Littlejohn [Daughter of Willie Jones] Mattie McArthur 

Mrs. Hutchings G. Burton Alice Hatcher 

Samuel Weldon Norman House 

The .Vttendants at the liall; The Dancers of {\w Minuet 

'rili': THIRD PART: THE CIX'IL WAR PI^RIOD 

Episode I : The Departure of the Scotland A'erk Mounted Rijlemen, April, ISdl. 

Played by the Holijiood Group [five rural schools] and Scotland Xcck. 

Captain A. B. Hill T. D. Temple 

Lieutenant Norfleet Smith Charles Shields 

Lieutenant B. G. Smith Chaiinccy Leggett 



A Pageaxt of Halifax Coixty Histoky 11 

Lieutenant J. Y. Savage W.J. Grimes 

L. O'B. Branch A.W. Dunn 

Mother Annie Hobbs Armstrong 

Daughter Mary Louise Bell 

Girl Who Presents Flag Nannie Levns 

Color Bearer H. C. Bell 

Color Guards Duprec Shields, Douglas Temple 

A Horseman Kesler Askew 

An Aged Woman Annie Messenger 

The Bugler Eugene Ethcridge 

The Confederate Soldiers; The Citizens of Scotland Neck and Surrounding Com- 
munity; The Dancers of the Virginia Reel; The Negro Fiddlers 

Episode II: The Soldiers in Camp. 
Played by the Hobgood Group [five rural schools] and Scotland Neck. 

Buck Kenan F. T. House 

First Soldier ' . Charles Shields 

Second Soldier Chauncey Leggeti 

Third Soldier W.J. Grimes 

Fourth Soldier Herbert Butts 

Sweeney D. M. Selleis 

Body Guards .... Jesse Partine, Hampton Pope, and Ernest P. Weeks 

Negro Mammies Mary Avent Outerbridge, Virginia White 

Young Girls Who Sing The Homespun Dress; Other Soldiers 

THE EPILOGUE 

Columbia Mary Bobbitt Powell 

A Federal Soldier A. B. Cook 

A Confederate Soldier Wm. E. WhUmore 

World War Soldiers 

The Spirit of the New Day Margaret Kinlaw 

The Spirit of Progress Margaret Hayes 

The Heralds of Progress: 

Christianity Martha Bower.s 

Education Annie M. Cherry 

Childhood Elisabeth Hyman 

Community Spirit Marjorie Craig 

Industry J. A. Moore 

Thrift H. H. King 







TeIE BiRTIll'I.ACE OF THE StATE CONSTITUTION, 

Halifax, X. C. 



THE PROLOGUE 




A Source Spring of the Roanoke, 
Roanoke County, Va. 



Springing from its life source in the mountains of Virginia, the Roanoke takes its 
winding course through Carolina hills and lowlands, ever towards the ocean. Imbued 
with the spirit of the people who came, like it from Virginia, it teems with impulses, 
moods and idsions of a people u-hn still strive unccasiughj for life's sivelling sea. 




Roanoke River 



3rt)e prologue 



The Springing of the Waters 

[The music sounds a summons of gladness. The Sprites of the 
Water dance in, led by the Spirit of the Roanoke. Around 
her they weave their light, gay dance, suggesting the sparkling and 
rippling of waters under cloudless skies. The Spirit of the 
Roanoke is a tall graceful figure, wearing a robe of pale-blue- 
green with a touch of silver and gold, the colors of the waters in 
sunlight.] 

The Spirit of the Roanoke 

In the unceasing tides of human existence, 

Surg'es forever an infinite longing 

To achieve, and to be one with the splendor and sweep 

Of an ultimate, Ijeckoning sea. 

I, the great River, am but many streamlets, 
I have always, and ever will, yearn for the sea; 
I am this people, their hopes and achievements, 
I am the prophet of greatness to be. 

I come with the Sprites of my waters about me 
Young like my life source, the bubbling of springs. 
Bidding you look to the Youth of our County, 
Joy in the stories of courage it brings. 



16 1'llK SriKir OF TlIK lioANOKE 

[As the Water-Sprites dance about her she advances closer. 

By the shores of Roanoke River 
"Morotuck," the Red Man called it, 
Dwelt the Tuscarora Indians 
Hunting, fishing, trading, fighting, 
Undisturbed and unmolested 
'Till, from out the Land of Morning, 
Came the pale-face brothers seeking 
Wealth of forest, fruit of field. 
Came Virginians seeking farm-lands 
On the Carolina shores. 

Long in peace they lived together 
Justice served to purchase safety; 
Pale-face paid his red-skin neighbor 
For his home, and war was not. 
But the rovers of the forest, 
Restive, longing for more freedom. 
Leave their primal habitations, 
Join the kindi'ed Iroquois — 
Leave the white man sole possessor 
Of the fertile Roanoke shores. 



THE FIRST PART 
Indian and Pioneer Days 



In 17 IS, at the dose of the India ii War, the remnants of the once 
ymcerful Tu^earoras barter to the enterpn'sina pioneers, venturing along 
the Roanoke shores, lands on which the foinidations of a new Commonwealih 
are to be laid. As the first settlements along the Albemarle thus overflow 
their bounds, the Red Man seeks a wider freedom among the tribes of the 
far north. 



The First Part— Indian and Pioneer Days 

olfje ^usicarorasi ^ih Jfarehjell to ilorotucfe, 
^fte laiber of Beatfj, 1713 

Scene: An Indian camp on the banks of Morotuck [Roanoke 
River]. 

[In the hockground are tepees around which several squaivs are busily 
at U'ork, some grinding corn, some making baskets of rushes, and 
one hoeing in the little patch of maize doivn near the river. A 
papoose is suspended from one tree. Two or three dogs are seen.] 

[Silently, as if by magic, a scout appears in front of the chiefs wigwam. 
The morning stillness is suddenly broken by the sounding of the 
tom-tom which is followed by the rapid assembling of the braves. 
They form the council circle. The scout makes it known that the 
lohiteskin pioneers from across the river are on their ivay to take 
full possession of the land. The chief then points upward to the 
Great Spirit who is guiding them to the northward. In silence 
the Death Dance of the tribe is given. The dance is followed by 
a pause during which the assembly awaits gravely the coming of 
the pioneers and the last sad moment of farewell to their olden 
homeland.] 

[The lumbering prairie-schooners, filled with pioneer parents, their 
eager-eyed children, and household possessions, draw up before 
the encampment. The men descend and offer bright colored shining 
trinkets, firearms and firewater to the chief and his braves.] 

The Pioneer 

Here, Big Chief Black Feather, is the promised payment for 
these bottom lands. 

[He points to the neighboring fields. The Chief accepts with a grunt 
of assent. Two braves take charge of the payment, while a third 
comes forth bearing a stalk of Indian corn.] 

The Brave 
Give White Brother aift. Sweet corn of tlie Red Man. 



20 TlIK Sl'll.MT i>l' rilK Iu)A.\()KE 

The Pioneer 

[Exutniuiuy the gift closchj]. And how can tlic White ^^lan use it? 

The Brave 

We show tlie ]ilantinf>;. Show tlie liarvest. Rich hinds— niucli 
corn. 

[He goes through the motionn of pJaniing corn, burying first a fish 
and covering it well, then measuring its upward growth until it is 
as high as the one he bears in his hand.] 

[Here the Corn Dance o/ the tribe is given, in which not onbj the 
corn-planting and the harvesting season are pictured hut a/.so the 
supplication made to the Great Spirit. This is followed by the 
smoking of the Peace Pipe as a symbol of peace and friendly 
greeting to the neiv-comers. The Chief first smokes the calumet, 
then offers it to the Pioneer who in turn passes it around the circle 
to the Indian braves and pioneers. The Indian maidens then come 
forward and dance quietly the sacred Peace Pipe Dance of the 
race. After this ceremony, the Pioneer again speaks.] 

The Pioneer 

We will live h(>re to^ethei-, build our homes and be your friends 
forever. 

The Chief 

[,SV/r//// shaking his head.] 

No live to<>;(>ther. C.reat S])irit call us. Say Ro join Iroquois. 
Say go Northward— Land of the North Wind. Ishkoodah, the comet 
up there came to warn us. \o live here. We go. 

[He extends his hand in farewell.] 

The Pioneer 
May the Great Sjiirit lead you to a llap|)\' Hunting (bound. 

The Chief 

We go. We leave you our forests, our rivers, our si)rings. Much 
good water over yonder, l^'d Man's si)ring. nnich good water. 



A Pageant of Halifax Couxty History 21 

The Pioneer 
Point us the way, for we, too, must have good water. 

[The Chief points tutrard Halifax. Then in silence the Red Man 
and the White Man bid each other farewell. They part, going in 
opposite directions, the pioneers into the neighboring lowlands, the 
Indians into the North, carrying all their possessions.] 



THE INTERLUDE 



V^\)t Snterlutie 
tE^fje ^uartitan OTaters; 



The Spirit of the Roanoke 

As settlements grew on the banks of the River 

New counties were formed and at last Halifax 

Withdrew from old Edgecombe, though with opposition, 

And bravely began her career. 

And, as in the tales of long ago times, 

Good fairies came christening the new-comer there, 

The Sprites of the River bore gifts of great value, 

A sign of a future, more rich and more fair. 

And these are the gifts that the sprites of the water 

Came bringing our County in those youthful days — 

Courage to build and joy in the buikling. 

Love of the largess of beauty so free. 

Trust in the God of Rivers and Nations 

Who created hearts that would yearn for the sea; 

But above all, the gift that is priceless. 

Love that leads upward and outward and on, 

Spending its richness in generous service 

Watch-hght to glow till a new-breaking dawn. 

[The Water Sprites dance before the Spirit of the Roanoke to 
whom they are bringing their gifts.] 

The Spirit of the Roanoke 

And over it all rests the promise, 
A rainbow blending in one 
The high exultation, the vision, 



26 The SimIvMI' oi-" tiik IIoa.ndkk 

The lovo of the huildinj;- hcfiuii. 
I am tli<' I{iv<'r, the l^roplict, 
Yours is the gladsome lay, 
And grandly the seers of the ages 
Shall sing the high dreams of today. 
And fired l)y the ]iromise, the people 
Have riven the barrier gray 
Advaneing free, like streams to the sea 
Toward the goal that is called today. 



And what was the dream that could lure to tlic west 

If not freedom to live and create? 

Should the tyrant, King George, wrest from our grasp 

The gifts that should stamp us as great? 

No: Unjustly he ruled. He forteitcnl then 

Allegiance forevermore. 

On the Fourth of July our spirit was voiced 

And the news spread from mountain to shore. 

And Halifax wildly exulted that day, 

When Harnett was there* to read 

The immortal words that the world has proclaimed 

A lesson for free men to heed. 

And without delay the Colony's best 

Unite to establish a State. 

The State Constitution from Willie Jones' pen 

Is signed without lengthy debate. 

Repeatedly Halifax gives of her best 

For the glorious cause she defends; 

And Freedom mounts ujnvard, a caged thing released, 

Till victory upon us tlescends. 

.1 chorus of freedom, "The Birthrkiht. " conies as; a climax to the 
words of the Si'iRiT of the Roanoke, who slirrcd by its strains 
marches proiidh/ on.\ 



A Pageant of Halifax ConxTY History 27 

The Birthright 

"Sons of a land where the Goddess of Light 
Lifts high the torch that shall guide you aright, 
Wherever you go and whatever you do, 
Hands must l)e ready and hearts must be true. 
Ready to hold all that Honor sustains, 
Ready to yield all that Justice ordains, 
True to the Faith and to Duty's command, 
True to your Birthright, your Native Land. " 

Chorus 

"Courage be the watchword — ever, 
Courage to do when the deed is right, 
Ahvays Truth, and Falsehood— never. 
Through all the struggle keeping Honor bright." — 

"Sons of the Free, tread the pathway of Men! 
Deeds that were great may be done once again. — 
Keep bravely the road though the journey be far, 
March ever forward, your eyes on a star. 
Ready to meet every pitfall and snare. 
Ready to do, when to do is to dare, 
True to yourself and to Honor's command. 
True to your Birthright, your Native Land." 



THE SECOND PART 
The Revolutionary Period 



April 1.2, 1770, the Provincial Congress, in session at Halifax, 
passed the fatuous resolution instructing the delegates in the Continental 
Congress from North Carolina to vote for a N^ational Declaration of Inde- 
pendence, antedating similar resolutions from other colonies. 

November 12, 177(!, the first Consti(uti<nt(d Convention of North 
Carolina met in Halifax and organized the State (iorernment. 

Restricted polHicidlii and commereiidlij, unjusth/ taxed, ami chafing 
under the tyranny of royal governors, the liberty-loving American patriots 
rise against the Mother Country and become a self-governing Conitnon- 
irealth. A new field is hereby created in ichich experiments in democratic 
government are to be successfully and conclusively demonstrated as the 
greatest achievement in modern politlctd development. 



The Second Part — The Revolutionary Period 
EPISODE I. 

^\)t Jfir£it Constitutional Contention, 
Secemtjer 18, 1776 

Scene: Outside the Courthouse at Hahfax. 

[A croicd of men and iromen come in, talking excitedly, looking ivith 
eager expectation in the dii'cction of the Courthouse. They tcdk 
together.] 

The First Speaker 

It's high time the Convention's through a-drawin' up that Con- 
stitution. I want to hear what they've done. 

Another Man 

This puts me in mind of last twelfth of April when Harnett read 
us the Resolutions deelarin' us free from King George. 

The First Speaker 

Heaps of things has happened here this year. Wasn't the Declara- 
tion of Independence read right here in front of this Courthouse on 
July 27th? It's jest lak I been a-tellin' you. Us in Halifax is gwine to 
paddle our own canoe and this whole North Carolina is too. Hurrah 
for the State Constitution! 

[The crowd cheers wildly. Someone sees and points to the men coming 
from the Courthouse.] 

Hurrah, here they come! Hurrah for Jones! Hurrah for Har- 
nett! Hurrah for the delegates to the Convention! 

[The members of the Constitutional Convention come on the 
stage from the direction of the Courthouse, the people cheering them. 
Harnett speaks.] 



32 The Spirit of tiik Uoaxoke 

Harnett 

Fellow citizens of Halifax, your rei)reseiitatives and others from 
different parts of this State have atlopted the Constitution of the State 
of North Carolina. Mr. Willie Jones, your fellow townsman, Avho 
framed the Constitution, will now read it to you. 

[AtnUl the checra of the crowd Willie Jones cuines forward. A hmh 
comes over the people as they listen to the reading of the docwyient.] 

[Oidii the most important Articles of the original Constitution have 
been selected to Iw read, as tin's official record in toto was too 
lengthy.] 

Willie Jones 

^h•. Hariu'tt, Fellow Citizens: 

"The Constitution or Form of Government, ai^reed to and resolved 
upon by the Representatives of the free men of North Carolina, elected and 
chosen for that particuUar purpose in Congress assembled, at Halifax, the 
eighteenth day of December in the year of our Lord One 'I'housand, Seven 
Hundred and Seventy-Six. 

" Whereas Allegiance" and Protection an> in their nature reciprocal and 
the one should of Right be refused where the other is withdrawn; and 
Whereas George the Third, King of Great Biitain and late Sovereign of 
the British American Colonies, hath not only withilrawn from them his 
protection, but by an act of the British Legislature declared tlie inhabitants 
of these states out of the protection of tlie British Crown and all their prop- 
erty found upon the High Seas liable to be seized and confiscated to the; uses 
mentioned in the said act. And the said George the Third has also sent fleets 
and armies to prosecute a cruel war against them for the purpose of reduc- 
ing the inhabitants of the said (Colonies to a state of abject slavery, in 
con.sequence whereof, all government under the said King within the said 
Colonies and a total Dissolution of Government in many of them hath 
taken place. 

"And whereas, in our present State, in order to prevent anarchy and 
confusion, it becomes necessary that Government should be established in 
this State; therefore, we, the Representatives of the Freemen of North 
Carolina, chosen and assembled in Congress for the (>xpress purpose of 
framing a Constitution under the authority of the People, most conducive 
to their Hai)piness and Prosperity, do declare that a (Jovernment for this 
State shall be established in manner and form following to-wit: 

(1) " L That the legislat ive authority shall be vested in two distinct 
Branches, both dei)eridcnt on the People, a Senate and a House of 
(Commons. 

(2) "Vn. That all Freemen of the age of twenty-one, who liave 
lieen inhal)itaiits of any one County within the State twelve months imme- 
dintely preceediiig the day of any election and posses.sed of a I'reelioid 



A Pageant of Halifax County History 33 

within the same County of Fifty acres of land for six months next before, 
and at the day of election, shall be entitled to vote for a member of the 
Senate. 

(3) "VIII. That all Freemen at the age of twenty-one who have 
been inhabitants of any County within the State twelve months im- 
mediately preceding the day of any Election, and shall have paid taxes, 
shall be entitled to vote for a member of the House of Commons in the 
County in which he resides. 

(4) "XXXIV. That there shall be no establishment of any one 
religious Church or Denomination in this State in preference to any other, 
neither shall any person, on any pretense whatever, be compelled to attend 
any place of worship contrary to his own faith or judgment — Provided, 
that nothing herein contained shall be construed to exempt preachers of 
treasonable and seditious discourses, from legal trial and punishment. 

(5) "XLI. That a school or schools be established by the Legis- 
lature for the convenient instruction of Youth, with such salaries to the 
Masters, paid by the Public, as may enable them to instruct at low prices, 
and all useful learning shall be duly encouraged and promoted in one or 
more Universities. 

"This Constitution is not intended to preclude the present Congress 
from making temporary provisions for the well ordering of this State, until 
the General Assembly enact a Government agreeable to the mode herein 
described. 

"December the Eighteenth, One Thousand Seven Hundred and 
Seventy-Six, read the third time, and ratified in open Congress." 

Richard Caswell, Presiilcnt. 
James Green, Jr., Secretary. 



[At the end of the reading the crowd remains silent. A minister 
steps forward and lifts his hand. The people bow their heads 
reverently.] 

The Minister 

Almighty God, the Father of ah men. Who art the Giver of 
Freedom and the Author of Everlasting Life. We are conscious of 
our inal^ihty to do any good thing without Thy help. We desire to 
put into execution plans for the good of Thy people. We invoke Thy 
Divine Guidance in the affairs of our people in this County and this 
State. We humbly beseech Thee that Thou wouldst be pleased to 
direct and prosper, by the power of the Holy Ghost, all their consulta- 
tions, to the advancement of Thy Glory, the safety, honor and welfare 
of Thy people; that all things may be so ordered and settled by their 
endeavors upon the best and surest foundations, that peace and happi- 
ness, truth and justice, religion and piety may be established among 



34 TlIK SlMIMT OK TIIK lio.WOKE 

US for all geiuTutions. tSave us from all error, ignorance, pride and 
prejudice and from whatsoever else may hinder us from righteousness. 
These things we huml)l>- l)(>g in the Name and mediation of Thy Son 
our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen. 

[As the crowd stirs expectantly, Harnett speaks.] 

Harnett 

Fellow Count rvincn : — 

"Maj' I ask. tliat we, in tlio midst of such tonsonoss and enthusiasm, 
bring our minds to fully appreciate the solemnity of this occasion which 
is to be memorable in the history of our Country? As was most fittinp:. 
we have invoked the Divine Guidance of the Almighty. It is true that 
He lielps those who liel|) themselves, that He enables His people, in a 
measure, to answer their own ]ietitions. Therefore, we must co-operate 
with Him in this great and imixntant undertaking. 

"In the ancient games in Greece the runners bore a torch and, having 
completed their assigned run, they handed the torch to their successor 
who carried it on as he ran his race. Our forefathers have been doing 
the pioneer work; they have blazed the trail for us and amidst tremenaous 
hardships and difficulties they have carried their torch in the race and 
and have gained for the people of Halifax this land and left for us, with their 
torch handed on to us, the heritage of independence. The necessary steps 
have been taken to free us from the shackles of slavery to an oppressive 
government under that despot, George the Third. Liberty is one of 
Heaven's best gifts to men. Our fathers have realized this in the Resolu- 
tions drawn up in Halifax on April r2th, and in reading the National 
Declaration of Indeix'ndence here on November 21st. As carrying on 
these deeds a State has been formed by these representatives of the people 
of this colony assembled in this town. For Freedom hard times have been 
endured, harder days are before us. We must be ready to make the fight 
for it, come what may. May the .sense of what has been done for us, may 
the appreciation of what we need, may the responsibility of our duty so 
inspire us that we may be ready to face the future with a willingness to 
get into the thick of the fight and carry our ho[)es into fruition. In the 
words of Patrick Henry spoken last Spring in Richmond, let us take as 
our motto, "I know not what cour.se others may pursue but as for me, 
give me liberty or give me death." 

[.4/nid enthusiastic cheers Harnett is borne off the stage on the 
shoulders of the men. The cannon from the fort at Qiianky booms 
the glorious tidings while the band plays excitedhj.] 



interlube 

The Spirit of the Roanoke 

Into the County long linos of Red-Coats, 
Headed by Tarleton, march with the sword, 
Gathering at Halifax, raiders go searching 
For varied supi:)lie8 the rich farm lands afford. 

What Halifax could not conceal or destroy 
Was seized as the prize and the trophy of war, 
And even stern Tarleton felt the brave spirit, 
Of young and of old, from near and afar. 

Great exultation arose as the soldiers 
Moved on to Yorktown to final defeat. 
Turned upside down was the world to the British, 
But to our patriots vict'ry was sweet. 



The Second Part — The Revolutionary Period 
EPISODE II 

arfte entrance of ^arleton into JIalifax, iilap 1781 

Scene: Camp Quanky. 

[The scene opens with CiEN. Allen Jones and his Halifax niilitia 
marching in — the band is plaijing " Yankee Doodle.'" They have 
just returned from a hike. They scatter in groups to rest. A scout 
7'ushes in hreathlessly . 

A Scout 
[S'aluting.] 

Sir, the Rod Coats are upon us! Tarleton has crossed Fishlno; 
Creek and is advancing along the Huckleberry Swamp road. 

[General Jones displays surprise, but his face betrays little of his 
feeling. He turns to a soldier.] 

General Jones 

Summon Governor Nash and the officers of each regiment to a 
conference with me at once. 

[The soldier salutes and goes off.] 

[With head bowed in thought General Jones strides up and down 
in front of his men who talk excitedly in tohispers. The sentry 
who has been walking his post sedutes and reports.] 

The Sentry 

Sir, a lady who begs an audience with you. Mistress Flora 
McDonald. 

General Jones 

[Speaking to the approaching icoman.] 

Mistress McDonald, I am at your service. 



38 'J'liK Si'ii;rr dk iiik IJoanoke 

Floha M( Donald 

Sir, my liushaiul is confined here in yoiii- Ilnlit'iix j;iil. The stale 
air of the prison is undcrniinin";' iiis health. He needs the air and sun- 
shine of the outdoors. He will not trouMe >'ou a^aiii. Tliough his 
sentiments will i-emain unchan<i;e(l, he will not n^-din ji;o into active 
service for the l\)vy cause. 

General Jones 

Mistress ATcDonald, as Connnander of Camp (^uaid-cy, I have no 
power either to imprison or set at lil)(>rty any Tory. An authority 
higher than I must handle matters of sueh grave import. I bid you 
good day, Mistress McDonald. 

[(Jeneral Jones ho^vs low <is Mhs. McDonald departs. (!o\-. 
Nash (ukI scrcrdl officers enter. The Governor seems ayitotcd.] 

Governor Nash 

(!enerai Jones, it appears that Bloody Tarleton with a small body 
of dragoons is u}jon us, with Cornwallis and his army in the immediate 
rear. We have no time to lose. We must act for the good of our noble 
cause. Let us consider what steps we shall take. AVhat do you 
deem best, General Jones? 

General Jones 

Your honor, it would be a useless expenditure of life to oppose the 
advance of the British, with only untried militia against Tarleton's 
Veteran Calvary. I deem it best that my command return to Warren- 
ton. From there we may keep a close watch upon the enemy and be 
ready at any time to come to the aid of Halifax. 

Governor Nash 

1 approve your ])lan, General Jones. The (Jeneral Assembly and 
the state officials desire to join you. We shall retire together. Halifax 
had l)est put aside its military appearance and resume the air of an 
unpretentious village. 

General Jones 
[Turning to a nuijor.] 
Major Davie, will you notify the Mayor of our retirements? 



A Pageant of Halifax County History 39 

[Major Davie salutes and goes off, followed by the Governor and an 
officer or two, deep in conversation.] 

[The soldiers at a bugle call begin preparations for leaving. Knap- 
sacks, canteens and. blankets are strapped on. Townspeople rush in 
excitedly to bid the men farewell, present them with packages of 
food, etc. Mothers embrace sons. Major Davie enters with Sara 
Jones {daughter of General A. Jones, and Davie's fiancee). 
She bids her father and lover goodbye. Soldiers march off amid a 
chorus of "good byes.'' Women turn sadly but resignedly home- 
ward. Other townspeople rush in, hastening out along Quanky's 
banks to hide food and other valuable possessions.] 

A Town.swoman 
I must save my grandmother's silver. 

[Bugle and drums announce the arrived of the British. Consterna- 
tion reigns among the townspeople as they scatter to finish hiding 
their treasures. A few stand at a distance and gaze scornfully at 
the Red Coats. Tarleton and Cornwallis advance together. 
The British soldiers are carnjing various articles they have stolen. 
One soldier carries two chickens which escape and are pursued 
amid laughter and jesting. Another leads a pony.] 

Tarleton 
The l)irds have flown. 

[The soldiers scatter over the camp, dispose of their packs and rest.] 

Tarleton 

General Jones and his weak-kneed militia have departed — rather 
hastily I should say. It was very thoughtful of the General to leave 
us his headquarters. 

[He points at a table and two chairs.] 

Cornwallis 

[Sitting down.] 

Many of the inhabitants must have hidden themselves. There is 
little sign of life. These Halifax rebels must be lacking in backbone. 



40 TlIK SlMKI'l' OK 'J'lIK iioAXOKE 

|77/r Commanders occu])]/ themselves ivith mays ickich they take from 
Ihiir pockets. A ijouikj girl, slender and graceful with a haufilij 
poised head, slips Itehind the sentry and approaches Tarletox 
irith a defiant air. She draws herself erect.] 

Miss Bishop 

I have come to you, sir, to demand the n^storation of my jiroperty 
A\-liich your knavish fellows stole from my father's yard. 

Tarleton 

[Astonished.] 

Let me understand you, Miss. 

Miss Bishop 

Well, sir, your roguish men in red coats came to my father's 
yard and stole my ])ony and I have walked here alone and unprotected 
to demand him, and sir, I nnist and will have him. I fear not your 
men. They are base and uni:)rincipled enough to dare to offer insult 
to any unprotected female, but their cowardly hearts wnll prevent 
them from doing her bodily injury. 

[She sees her horse at a distance and continues.] 

Miss Bishop 

There, sir, is my horse. I shall take him and ride peaceably 
honu^; and if you have any of the gentlemanly feeling within you of 
which your men are totally destitute, or if you have any regard for 
their safety, you will s(H', sir, that I am not interrupted. But, before 
I go, I wish to say to you that he who can and will not prevcnit this 
base and cowardly stealing from henroosts, stables, and barn-yards, 
is no better, in my estimation, than the mean, good-for-nothing, guilt>' 
wretches who do the work with their own hands. Good night, sir. 

[.S7/C walks toward her pony. Tarleton astounded gives an order 
for her safety.] 

Tarleton 
Sergeant, let the young lady do as she chooses. 

[A few soldiers hare icitnessed this. Others are scattered, playing 
games and talking.] 

JTarleton urites and (.vehaniics whispered remarks with Corx- 
Wallis. a scout enters and solutes.] 



A Pageaikt of Halifax County History 41 

A Scou-T 

Sir, foraging parties have returned from several parts of the 
County bringing supphes enough to last our forces a week. They 
report several unimportant clashes with the Rebels. In one encounter 
a daring Rebel Cavalryman was confrontetl by our men on Quanky 
Bridge and, sir, rather than surrender the daring fellow reared his 
horse and made him lea]:) the railing to the water thirty feet below. 
The horse was kilknl but that dare-devil of a Rebel escaped us. 

[Tarleton ))iake!< a few notes.] 

Tarleton 

Have the Commissary Department report to me all supplies 
taken at once. 

[The scout solutes and retires. A 'private reports.] 

A Private 
Sir, Mrs. Willie Jones and Mrs. John Ashe wish to speak to you. 

Tarleton 

Mrs. Willie Jones? She is the lady of the Grove House, is she not? 

[Soldier nods.] 

I have been at the Grove House and feel it my duty to see Mrs. 
Jones. 

[The soldier escorts Mrs. Jones and Mrs. Ashe to Tarleton.] 

Mrs. Jones 

Colonel Tarleton, your men have robbed the henroosts, the smoke- 
house and the cornfields of Grove House. I ask you, in the name of 
Justice, and appeal to you as I think you are a gentlemen, to put a 
stop to such disgraceful pillage and plunder. 

[Tarleton looks thoughtful.] 

Tarleton 

Madam, my forces must have supplies. I often regret that crops 
must be taken in this wholesale manner. Yet, you are rebels against 
the government of your most just King. Although it is reasonable 



42 TiiK S I'll; 11' oi-' riiK Roaxoke 

to .sui)])()s(' thai >()U would cxjx^'ct no hettcr trcatincut, it wouiuls me 
when my men hccome unnecessarily zealous in the King's cause. 

[-1/ the irords "rebeV^ (iiid "./(/^V King'' llic ladie.s stijfen.] 

Mrs. .Joxks 

Perhaps tliat is not tiu' only way you have been wounded, Colonel 
Tarleton, while serving your "just King" in America. 

[Mrs. JoNp]s lifts her ei/chroivs. Tarleton (Uspl<ii/s ai/i((ili(ui.\ 

Tarleton 

If you are rcfcrriufi; to William Washington by whom I was 
slightly wounded at the l)attl(> of Cowpens — he is only an ignorant, 
illiterate boor, scarcely able to Avrite his own name. 

[AIrs. Jones rcscnls his hnnjudijc.] 

Mrs. Jones 

Colonel Tarleton, you know very well that Washington, if he 
can't write as well as some men, knows how to make his mark. You. 
yourself, bear evidence. 

[.S7/C points to the hond Ix'orimj Washington's s(tl)re)N(trk. Tarle- 
ton turns red hid (ittctnpts to continue the conrersdfion.] 

Tarleton 
I should be happy to see Colonel Washington. 

Mrs. Ashe 

[U'/7// (I smile.] 

If you had looked behind >'ou at the battle of Cowpens, Col. 
Tarleton, you would have enjoyed that privilege. 

[Tarleton turns red atid his hand inroluntorily clidches his sivord hilt. 
CoRNWALLLS lays a rebuking hand on his eirni. A messenger 
honds CoRNWALLLS a sealed envelope. The ladies leave.] 

Mrs. Ashe and Mrs. Jones 

(lood day. Colonel Tarleton. 

[Tarleton reads the letter handed him hi/ Cornwallls. They 
confer. Tarleton summons a lieutenant.] 



A Pageant of Halifax Coukty History 43 

Tarleton 

Lieutenant, our orders are to march at once to Petersburg. Strike 
Camp! We must be on the march immediately. 

[A bugle call rouses the red coats. They hustle around preparing to 
leave. They march out u'ith lusty yells of "On to Virginia" and 
military music] 

[The townspeople run in to catch a last glimpse of the retiring red 
coats. They display great joy at their departure. Cries of "Long 
live the Colonies," "Down with King George" are heard. They 
yell after the British with scorn.] 

One Man 

[Shouting.] 

Our independence is nearly won! King George can not call us 
"Disloyal Rebels!" We are Revolutionists, loyal to our new Colonies, 
to America. 

[Hats are thrown in the air. Shouts of "Hurrah," "Three Cheers 
for General Washington," "Down with Tarleton," "Long 
live our Colonies" are heard. They go off shouting while the band 
plays "The World is Turned Upside Doiim.] 



Snterlube 

The Spirit of the Roanoke 

And now the imi^leinents of war have lost their usefuhiess 

And energies are once more l)ent 

Toward high pursuits of peace, 

Creating governments to fill their needs and justly rule 

Becomes the task of wisest men. 

Some there were who wished a sovereign state, 

But Davie stood for union with the rest. 

However, sentiment was very strong 

For what was called "State's Rights," 

And Carolina had no part in choosing Washington. 

A year passed ])y liefore the state became one of the Union, 

And Halifax, like other parts, was slow to change conviction. 

But when at last her lot was cast, 

Her noblest sons she furnished. 

And not within the whole Southland 

More loyal hearts could beat. 

* -Jf -x- ^ -X- 

William R. Davie, and Willie Jones, and 

John Paul Jones of the Navy, 
Allen and Alston and Ashe and Branch — 
Countless more are recorded. 
But, even then, many who wrought 
Are nameless and unsung forever. 

* , * -x- ^ ^ 

So uneventfully the years pass on. 
But for a flash of color here and there. 
Then aged Lafayette, old friend of lil)erty. 
When we were struggling desperately for life 
Comes, with his son, to visit Hahfax, 
And there lives over youthful days, 
Renewing friendships dear. 
Right royally the little town 
Received the guests that honored her; 
And many a gentle dame did boast 
That once she danced with Lafayette 
At Halifax's famous Ball. 




Lafayette's Ketuhn 

( From a painting by Percy Moraii 



The Second Part — The Revolutionary Period 
EPISODE III 

tlTfje Hafapette Jlall, Jfetiruarp 27, 1825 

Scene: Eagle Hotel. 

[It is late in the evening after a sumptuous banquet has been given in 
honor of Lafayette. A group of four or five older men and women 
enter talking while ''La Marseillaise'" is being played.] 

Samuel Weldon 

One can easily understand why this ball rivals the one given 
Washington here thirty-four years ago. 

Mrs. Littlejohn 

[Daughter of Willie Jones] 

Washington's welcome was hardly so cordial as the one which we 
are giving the illustrious Frenchman. My father was such an advocate 
of States' Rights that he was never reconciled to the views of the 
President as to the adoption of the Federal Constitution. 

[Other groups enter with Lafayette and his son the center of 
attention.] 

Mrs. Nicholas Long 

[Looking toward General Lafayette.] 

They say that the Clcneral is a famous dancer. 

Mrs. Hutchings G. Burton 

How much younger he appears than his son. Why he hasn't 
gray hair and his son's hair is nearly white. 



48 The Spiiut of the Roanoke 

General Lafayette 

[Lafayette overhears the ronarks and (•o)nes forirard making a low 
graceful French bou\\ 

Ma Chere Madanic, it is duo to the stylos iintl not to youthfulness. 
Wigs are les grands docoivers. 

[Several couples dance the Minuet, Lafayette leading off icith Mrs. 
Nicholas Long. After the Minuet, Lafayette bids the party 
good night. The gai/ dancers go off in groups after hearti/ farewells.] 



THE INTERLUDE 



®t)e Snterlube 
WUt turbulent Watev^ 



The Spirit of the Roanoke 

Truly does progress beget further progress, 

All lines of endeavor now flourish in peace, 

Schools of the County, of note, increase rapidly. 

Newspapers, too, start their honored careers. 

Halifax harbor, a great trading center, 

Evinced, at the time economic success. 

Still the old lumbering stage coach was used most for travel. 

And river boats used most for carrying freight. 

But more than all else, for all blessings so grateful. 

The people built churches proclaiming God's Word. 

A County, awakened, new-stretching its sinews. 

Ere the full-mature stature of statehood's attained. 

But, underneath are conflicting forces. 

Sooner or later to rise to the light. 

Their conflict is battle, their price is great bloodshed, 

And grimly they feed on the fair nation's might. 

[The Water-Sprites in their dance interpret the turbulence of the 
stormy river. They now wear grey-green, the color of troubled 
waters.] 

The Spirit of the Roanoke 

The flood gates are lifted, and turbulent passions 
Sweep over the country where lately peace reigned ; 
Like snow on the river, the hopes of peace vanish, 
And grimly the war-god re-marshals his train. 



THE THIRD PART 
The Civil War Period 



Like an alarm bell in the dead of night, the neiv.s of Sumter aroused 
the land to arms. There was a determination on the part of the South to 
"see it through,'' and the roll <f drums and tramp of soldiers told of the 
coming conflict. 

Under her noble f^on, Robert E.Lee, the South held out four long 
years, winning victory after victory, against heavy odds. The pitiless 
drive of superior forces, the steadily shrinking supply of men and material 
forced him at last to yield his sword at Appomattox. 



The Third Part — The Civil War Period 
EPISODE I 

J!L\)t departure of tfje ^cotlanb Mttk illounteb 
iaincmen, april, 1861 

Place: Scotland Neck — in the grove of W. R. Bond. 

[Various community groups come onto the stage. The people talk 
together, some grave and some excited. A mother and her daughter 
ore talking together.] 

Daughter 

Hark, the bugle! Our boys are coming. 

Mother 
Yes, God bless them! Do you see my boy in the front ranks there? 

Daughter 

Oh, mother, you have eyes for none but John. Now, I can spare 
a glance or two, at least, for the dashing young Lt. Smith. Isn't he 
handsome? 

Mother 

Ah, my child, the eyes of youth see not with the vision of old age. 
In the exultation of this proud hour, a mother's gaze centers upon the 
gift she proffers her country. 

Daughter 

And a wonderful gift it is ! The heart of every true North Caro- 
linian must swell with pride today. See, how well they march. With 
brave men to lead them, they will do their duty and do it nobly. But 
come, let us go a little closer. I want to hear the presentation of the 
flag and give three rousing cheers for Company G, the Scotland Neck 
Mounted Riflemen. 



56 Till-; Sl'llMT OF TIIK JvOAXUKE 

[The strain.'i of Dixie (ire heard in the di.stdnce, then the thud of 
marching feet. The crowd waits expectantly till the soldiers march 
in. They draiv up in runks. A girl steps forward holding a 
Confederate Flag. All sing ''The Bonnie Blue Flag" at the end 
of which she presents to the Company the flag.] 

The (liRL 

Sons of Halifax! You stand ready today to answer the I'unible ol 
Fort Sumter's guns with a message of glorious promise to the infant 
Confederacy, "i'ou have said to the Southland: "North Carolina 
gladly comes to your defense. We are waiting for your summons." 

Alas, no such opportunity for service is given to the women of 
Carolina. With you will go the lioiioi-, the glory, the bloodshed of the 
battlefield. To us is left the prayer, the smile, the tear which is always 
woman's share. We can but hope to figure in the dreams which come 
to you in the glow of your campfires whether they gleam among pines 
of your native state or the rugged hills of the Old Dominion. 

Captain Hill, as a symbol of our love for them and of our faith in 
their courage to defend the right, we, the women of Scotland Neck and 
the surrounding community, present this flag to Company O, the 
Scotland Neck Mounted Hificniien. 

[The color guard receives the flag.] 

Captain Hill 

[Bowing.] 

May I extend to you in behalf of Com])any (i, the Scotland Neck 
Mounted Riflemen, the heartfelt thanks of each of us for this 
sacred emblem rendered sacred l)y the hands that fashioned it? It shall 
be our standard of chastity and courage. With the jiurity of the woman- 
hood of Dixie always as our guiding star, we cannot fail to win the 
cause for which we fight. 

[He gives a eonunand to the bugler.] 

Sound "To the Colors." 

[The bugler sounds the cull. As the Jirst note^ ring out the Captain 
connnonds, ''Present — Arms" and himself solutes with his sword. 
The spectators stand, the men removing their hats. As the last note 
dies away, the Captain commands, "Order — Aryns," and the color 
guard takes the flog and nowes to position on the flank.] 

[There is complete silence as L. O'B. I^uaxch steps forward.] 



A Pageant of Halifax County History 57 

L. O'B. Branch 

Soldiers, you have received from these ladies the flag of your 
country. We send you forth to defend it. 

Boys of my native state, I have come back to you. I left the 
United States Congress a few days ago, not because I wanted to — 
proud have I been to serve the Union which our fathers made — but, 
because I knew that North Carolina would shortly leave that Union, 
not because she wanted to, but because it was her last resort. Rather 
than take up arms against her sister states, she will, like Robert E. Lee, 
draw her sword in defense of her native soil. 

These are days that try men's souls. Thoughtful, prayerful hours 
have been spent over the discussions which send us to fight for the 
South and for our Honor. May God's blessings go with us and God's 
comfort to these mother hearts at home. 

{Captain Hill gives the Cotnmand, ''Break Ranks. ^^] 

The Boys 
Hurrah for the South! 
Hurrah for State's Rights and three cheers for L. O'B. Branch! 

Lt. Norfleet Smith 

Boys, Mr. Branch could have been United States Treasurer if he'd 
a had it. 

Lt. B. G. Smith 

Never mind, Mr. Branch, you'll be a general yet. 

Lt. J. Y. Savage 

He'll get promoted in a hurry then. This war's not going to last 
three months. 

Lt. Norfleet Smith 

We'll have the Yanks chased home by the 4th of July. Sweeney 
and you other niggers, come play for us. Get your partners, privates, 
it may be six weeks before we'll have such a chance again. 

[The soldiers get their partners — The fiddlers strike up "Turkey in 
the Straw" for dancing the Virginia Reel. The couples forget 
the approaching parting and, dance gaily. The Virginia Reel is 
interrupted by the entrance of a horseman bearing orders to Captain 
Hill, who reads them aloud to his men.] 



58 The Spikit of jiik Koanoke 

Adjutant-CJenoral's Office 

Kalcigh, Ai)ril 26, 18G1. 

Captain :— You arc hereby coininaiulcd to report with Company G, 
Tliird N. C. Cavalry, otherwise known as "The Scotland Neck Mounted 
Riflemen," to Col. D. H. Hill, Commanding Camp of Instruction, 
Kaleigh, N. C, to be assigned for duty wiih the Forty-First Regiment. 

Our troojis will be moved into Mrginia as soon as possible, l)ut will 
not be led into battle until the field officers are of the opinion that the 
men are fit for such duty. The cause of Virginia is the cause of North 
Carolina. In our first struggle for liberty she nobly and freely poured 
out her blood in our defense. We will stand by her now in this our 
last effort for independence. 

All orders heretofore issued inconsistent with tlie foregoing are 
hereby annulled. 

By order of the Governor: 

.J. F. HOKE, 

Adjutant-General. 
Capt. a. B. Hill, 

Scotland Neck, N. C. 

[The bugler sounds the call, "To Arms" and the soldiers fall in line.] 

[The crowd surges out ^caving handkerchiefs and cheering, following 
the company which gaily marches aicay to the tune of Dixie. One 
aged woman is overcome with tears. The music and sound of 
marching feet and cheering gradually die avmy in the distance.] 



Snterlube 

The Spirit of the Roanoke 

Back to the home and the hearth of the soldiers, 
Goes news of battle-fields lost and won. 
Each taking toll of the wealth of the Southland, 
But still there is strength for the race they must run. 
The women, courageous, oft battle with hunger, 
Where sickness and sorrow and loss now abides; 
The homespun their raiment, a song their subsistence, 
And hope through the sweep of the swift-turning tides. 



The Third Part — The Civil War Period 
EPISODE II 

®:i)e ^olbierg in Camp 

Place: Woods in Northern Virginia. 

IThe negro body-guards enter and build the cam]) fires. The soldiers 
gather around these. Entering with them is Buck Kenan re- 
cently escaped from a Federal prison. They sit around the campfire. 

Buck Kenan 
Thank Ood, I'm home at last. 

First Soldier 

Well, if the dead ain't come to life. Buck Kenan, I thought a 
Yankee bullet had sent you to glory eighteen months ago. 

Buck Kenan 

Oh! you can't kill a Johnnie Rebel. Col. Cox proved that at 
Antietam. They nearly got me there but thought they had better 
finish the job at that hell hole of a Federal prison on Johnson's Island. 

Second Soldier 

So the United States Government has been feeding and lodging 
you free of charge, has it? Kind of it, eh? 

Buck Kenan 

Feeding and lodging be hanged. Better say killing my soul with 
the inactivity of prison life and ruining my body with rank food, foul 
air, and cramped quarters. 

Third Soldier 

How did you ever get away, old chap? 

Buck Kenan 

Ah! That's another story. A pal of mine and I slipped through 
their fingers. He was shot soon after, }ooor fellow. I've Ijeen tramping 
home ever since. 



C2 Tjie 8ni;ri- OK I II !■; Iioa.nokk 

T'lKSi' SoLDIKU 

We've been tlir()uj>;h hell, too, haven't we, hoys? You should 
have been at Chancellorsville in A]m\. Yanks sent Hooper with 
100,000 across the Rappaliannock Ijut L(>e and Jackson out-generaled 
him easy. Oh, you could have heard that rebel yell to Johnson's 
Island. 

Buck Kenan 

You know I'd liave l)(>en with you ])oys if I coiild. 

Fourth Soldier 
We lost Stonewall .lackson that nitiht. 

Buck Kenan 

Not Lee's good right arm? 

Fourth Soldier 

Yes. And besides one of our pickets mistook him and his staff for 
Federal Cavalry. 

Bill Kenan 

What a l)l()\v to the Confederacy! 

Second Soldier 

I tell you we felt the loss in our three days' fight, at Gettysburg. 
The ragged remnant of ( )1(1 Company G., "The Scotland Neck Mounted 
Riflemen," couldn't get there the first day, but we made up for it the 
last two. Halifax cU^ad W{>re among the closest to the enemies' lines. 
In that respect 'twas Bethel over again. 

First Soldier 

We have been in many a bloody fight these last months, I tell you. 
On the disastrous field of Five Forks, our cavalry commanded and led 
by our brave and daring young Lt. Norfl(M't Smith made a most success- 
ful charge and would have completely rout(Hl the Yanks, if the infantry 
had not given way. It was a sharj) attack. 

Buck Kenan 

You bet! North Carolina troops like the smell of the Yankees' 
gun ])()wder. 



A Pageant of Halifax County History 63 

Third Soldier 

Our Halifax leaders are coming to the front in a hurry. Did you 
know that L. S. Baker, David Clark, W. R. Cox, Junius Daniel, and 
L. O'B. Branch are Brigadier-Generals? And, besides, Walter Clark 
and J. B. Neal are both Majors now. 

Fourth Soldier 

Capt. W. R. Bond and Capt. Buck Kitchin and Capt. Whitmol 
Hill Anthony have won their spurs, too. They are adding credit and 
glory to the name of Scotland Neck and Halifax County along with all 
the rest. 

Buck Kenan 

CJee, that's great! And just to think they are our own boys, too. 
Hurrah for Company G and all the others! 

First Soldier 

They are soon going to have a chance to test our strength on the 
water. Haven't heard about the iron-clad gun boat they are ])uilding 
at Edwards' Ferry near Scotland Neck, have you? Peter Smith is 
building her in his ship yard, a big open corn-field. He expects to 
christen her the "Albemarle." They say she will operate on the 
Albemarle and Pamlico Sounds. 

Buck Kenan 

It's good to have news from home, but let's talk more of the battles 
later. Now let's sing some of the old home songs. Let's have some 
music. 

Second Soldier 

Come, Sweeney, play us a tune before Taps. 

[Sweeney plays on his banjo, the other negroes joining ivith him ivhile 
the soldiers sing "Fse Gwirie Back to Dixie," "I Saiv a Field of 
Cotton," "John Broum's Body" and " Siveet Evelina."] 

[Taps is sounded softly in the distance during the singing of the last 
song. The men roll up their coats and fall asleep around the fire.] 

[Now in a faint light in the background appears a vision of the girls 
at home.] 

[ Tivo negro mammies bring in the spinning wheels and stools for a 
group of girls who enter at the back and begin to ivork busily. They 
sing softly.] 



04 TiiK SniMi' oi- riiK Iioaxoke 

The Homespun Dress 

"Oh, ye.s, I am a Southern Girl, And glory in the name 
And boast it with far greater pride, Than glittering wealth or fame. 
I envy not tiie Northern girl, Her robes of beauty rare, 
Tho' diamonds grace her snowy neck, And pearls bedeck her hair." 

Chorus 

"Hurrah! liurrah! for the Sunny South so Dear! 
Three cheers for the homespun dress. That Southern ladies wear." 

"My homespun dress is plain I know. My hat's palmetto too. 
But, then, it shows what Southern girls for Southern rights will do! 
We've sent the bravest of our land, To battle with the foe, 
And we will lend a helping hand. We love the South, you know." 

[Suddenly a bugle call "To Arnis^' is sounded in the distance. At 
the first notes, the vision fades away and the soldiers awake. They 
hurriedly seize their arms. The negroes put out the camp fires and 
the soldiers pass off the stage running. The bugle call dies away 
in the distance.] 



THE EPILOGUE 



^f)e epilogue 
Eije iilinglmg of tf)c OTatersi 



The Spirit of the Roanoke 

[Slowly the Water-Sprites enter, their heads bent with sorrow and 
their movements iveary. They wear the sombre grey of defeat.] 

The Spirit of the Roanoke 

The bent reed is ]:»roken: all struggling now futile. 
Vain, all too vain, were the hopes that are fled. 
Five against one,- — for a while man could do it, — 
Five against one, but that was not all: 
Sickness and sorrow and hardships of loved ones 
Tested with fire the temper of men. 
Though valient in battle, they were not immortal, 
And man,y died guarding the Bonnie Blue Flag. 

And this is the song of the flag they had chosen 
When the tumult of battles was stilled: 

" Fiirl that banner, for 'tis weary, 
Round its staff 'tis drooping dreary, 

Furl it, fold it, it is best; 
For there's not a man to ivave it, 
And there's not a sivord to save it. 
And there's not one left to lave it, 
In the blood which heroes gave it. 
And its foes now scorn and brave it, — 

Furl it, hide it, let it rest." 
"Furl that banner! softly, slowly, 
Treat it gently — it is holy. 

For it droops above the dead; 
Touch it not, unfold it never. 
Let it droop there furled forever. 

For its people's hopes are dead. " 

[The Water-Sprites rise out of their grief, showing hope and joy as 
the Spirit of the Roanoke speaks. The Spirit of the Roanoke 



68 TiiE ISi'jiiiT OF TijE Roanoke 

throws back her grey robe revealing her final costwne, resplendent 
in its rich blue-green shades, tinted ivith flecks of gold and silver.] 

But wake, ye minstrels of the South, and sing a grander lay; 

Proclaim the glorious heritage we venerate today! 

"P'or how can a man die better than when facing fearful odds 

For the ashes of his fathers, and the temples of his gods?" 

And now behold new trails of hope! 

The stricken people rise, 

Courageous o'er the ruin wide, 

]\Iade strong by sacrifice. 

The New South with allegiance sure 

Advances stride by stride, 

'Till what was blue and what was gray 

Now march on side by side. 

"Here's to the blue of the wind-swept North, 
When they meet on the Fields of France. 
May the spirit of Grant be with them all, 
As the sons of the North advance." 

"Here's to the gray of the sun kissed South, 
When they meet on the fields of France. 
May the spirit of Lee be with them all 
As the sons of the South advance." 

"Here's to the blue and tli(^ gray as one, 
When they meet on the fields of France. 
May the Spirit of Ood be with them all 
As the sons of the Flag advance." 

[The Water-Sprites dojice gailij off, as the Spirit of the Roanoke 
co7icludes.] 

And over it :dl rests the promise, 
A iniubow, blending in one 
The liigh exultation, the vision, 
The love of the l)uilding begun. 
I am the River, the Prophet, 
^'ours is the gladsome lay. 
And grandly the seers of tlie ages 
Shall sing the hi^h drennis of todnv. 



A Pageant of Halifax Colxty History 69 

[As the Spirit of the Roanoke concludes, the figure of Columbia 
appears at the hack, and a Confederate and Union soldier 
complete the tableau. Before them marches a long dusky line in 
khaki. With hands upraised in militanj solute, they follow Colum- 
bia as she departs in the ivake of her soldier-sons of today.] 

The Spirit of ihe Roanokic [Continues.] 

The promise has lured to achievement, 
A mighty-souled nation we stand. 
And brotherhood born of our freedom 
Has flourished in far-distant land. 

In France when the torch was lighted. 
Our millions bore sword for the right, 
Enlarging our national vision 
By sensing our heroic might. 

Of the valiants who struggled for freedom, 
In any great age or clime, 
We clearly will raise the grandest of praise, 
For heroes of our present time. 

A long, dusky line in khaki 

That winds through our national thought, 

A pledge that the heritage left us. 

For a heroic mold has been wrought. 

Proving that through all disaster. 
In firmness our nation shall stand, 
A glorious light and seer, 
A guiding and well-guarded land. 

[The Spirit of the Roanoke ascends her throne as, ivith quick and 
joyous music the eager figure of the New Day enters, clothed in 
simple white Greek robe with golden cord around her waist. She 
timidly approaches the throne and speaks.] 

New Day 

Kindly stranger, will you guide me, 
Point the way I need must go? 
I, the New Day, fare forth staunchly 
Into paths I do not know. 



70 'I'llK SlMIMT OK THE RoANOKE 

The Spirit of the Roanoke 
[Kindly.] 

Child of Dawm, here by the River 
Is a dwelling made for thee. 
I, the River, whisper secrets 
Of thy lot that is to be. 

New Day 

[With dignify.] 

Stately Roanoke, on whoso bosom 

Storms have played with thundering might, 

Lift thine eyes unto the Future, 

To thy ligiitning vision bright. 

Pierce the darkness on before us. 

Call the spirits guarding o'er us, 

Weave into one mighty chorus. 

Songs for our delight. 

The Spirit of the Roanoke 

Child of the Dawn, the world's wide margin, 
Bright with footsteps glad and free 
Lies before you, starred with helpers; 
Here they come to welcome thee. 

[Enter the Heralds of progress dressed in simple white Greek robes 
with a golden cord about the waist.] 

[Christianity, carrying a shining cross] 

[Education, carrying a light] 

[Lndustry. carrying a hammer] 

[Thrift, carrying a bank] 

[Community Spirit, bringing an open hand] 

[Spirit of Childhood, followed by twelve small children dressed in 
white ivho play informally during the entire scene. The Spirit of 
the Roanoke is seated on the central throne, with the New Day at 
her right hand. The throne on her left remains vacant for Progress.] 

New Day 

[As they enter.] 

And who are these shining symbols 

Moving with majestic mien? 



A Pageant of Halifax County History Y1 

The Spirit of the Roanoke 

Heralds of Progress, eager seeker, 

That toward which we fain would move. 

New Day 

And where is Progress? Does she tarry 
In some far abiding place? 
When will she unto my people 
Show her bright and welcome face? 

The Spirit of the Roanoke 

When the heralds there before you 
Have prepared for her the way. 

New Day 

Will they tell me, if I question. 
What requirements there may be? 

The Spirit of the Roanoke 
[7^0 the heralds.] 

Stand forth, and of Life's fuller dawn 
Proclaim the part you play. 

Christianity 
[Holding aloft her cross.] 

I am come that ye might have life. 
And have it more abundantly." 

New Day 

By what sign, Christianity, 
Shall thine abode be known? 

The Spirit or the Roanoke 

Speak, I pray, of what thy power 
Shall work in Halifax. 



72 The Spikit of the Roanoke 

Christianity 

God, our help in ages past, 

Our hope for years to come, 

Will through his children oft reveal, 

By deeds of kindhness and love. 

His everlasting dwelling place 

Within his p(>ople's hearts. 

His grace shall soften life's stern race 

Into a valiant pilgrimage 

A pilgrimage that ends at last out on the crystal sea. 

New Day 

A pearl beyond our utmost thought 
Is Christianity. 

And you who come with guiding light, 
What say est thou? 

Education 

I am she whom they call Education; 

I cherish the light that has burned through the ages, 

1 ('has(» from the eyes of my people the darkness. 

Superstition I banish, and ignorance, fear. 

And into one deepening, strengthening union. 

I bind them as brothers henceforth, evermore. 

New Day 

And how, oh light within the darkness, 
Do you clear the way for Progress? 

Education 

I give to those that seek my light 
The power to lift tlunnselves, and grow 
In worth, both unto self, and those 
Who s(H'k the world's best hope. 

New Day 

Truly, these alone should bring 
What peoi)l(^ most desir(\ 
But here are others, fmd their miens 
Betoken some portentous worth. 



A Pageant of Halifax County History T8 

[Speaking to Industry.] 

And who art thou, oh pioneer, 

As stalwart as the primal pine? 

Industry 

I am Industry. The sinews here 

Grew hard on many a field of toil. 

My courage and my strength went forth 

While yet America was young, 

To clear untrodden ways 

And build a road for Progress. 

I venture ever into new grounds; 

There with axe I lay the forests low. 

Hoe and plow have led the way for great prosperity. 

The endless whir of intricate machinery is mine, 

And power of steam, electricity, and steel. 

From you, oh mighty Roanoke, long has come 

A rich supply of power to turn my wheels. 

How I shall be developed, best guided and controlled, 

Looms now a mammoth problem on before you. 

New Day 

Point by point I trace your footsteps 
In the history of our people. 
How to use the strength you proffer, 
How to point its power toward Progress, 
Best can come through wise adjustments, 
Made by wise experiment. 

Thrift 
[Advancing.] 

Oh hear me, New Day dawning now! 
I come to bid you save, conserve. 
The heritage the past has left; 
Your vast and undeveloped wealth; 
Your stalwart forests often charred 
By torch of stohd carelessness ; 
The health of body and of mind ; 
And thus forge on to utmost bounds 
Of full potential worth. 
I, the strong right arm of Progress, 
Trusty counsel offer thee. 



74 TjIK Srilil'J' OF TJIK JioANOKE 

New Day 
Thrift, your guidance will be welcome 
But see! One comes with siiining morning face, 
And open, friendly hand. 

Community Spirit 
Behold, New Day! I am the hand 
That gathers iij) the broken ties 
Of friendship, and 1 make to sing 
Song-hungry hearts — humanity. 
For I am that which makes one stand 
In unison with those who build 
For church and school and native land. 
For brotherhood of nations. 
I bid all life 

"Look up, not down, 

Look out, not in. 

Look forward, not back 

And lend a hand." 

The Spirit of the Roanoke 
Eager New Day, rest your eyes now. 
On the fairest of all tokens 

Pointing toward the coming splendor, coming to abide. 
Behold the spirit, now, of Childhood ! 
While its trust and joyous beauty 
Reigns within, and spends its richness. 
Adding grace to life's stern toiling; 
While, as long as we can play, and 
Find at spring-time spring within us. 
Happiness, desire of all men. 
Sheds its mellow golden glow. 
If we dearly cherish Childhood, 
The untraveled, unscanned future, 
Gleaming through the arched rainbow, 
Maj^ be greeted glad, unfaltering. 



A Pageant of Halifax County History 75 

New Day 

Bind us close to Happiness 
Oh Childhood, fair, eternal! 

[TJw children play simply before the throne. There is a burst of music 
heralding the entrance of Progress. The children play to the side 
a minute or so, and then run off. All rise. Progress, attended 
by five pages, three bearing trumpets, ascends the throne after 
addressing the ^Spirit of the Roanoke and New Day as folloivs.] 

Progress 

I come at the call of an open field 
Where the whitened harvests blow. 
I come for the heralds have found you good, 
And I in their wake must go. 

[The Spirit of the Roanoke joins the hands of Progress and the 
New Day, sending them forth, followed by their attendants.] 

The Spirit of the Roanoke 

Onward I point you, while springtime is stirrring, 
And fashioning dreams that will shine through your eyes, 
They, with their magic, shall rear a new Camelot, 
Music-wrought, beauty-filled, valiant and wise. 

[As the Spirit of the Roanoke, seer and prophet of the destinies of 
her people, bids Progress and the brightly dawning New Day 
work out the visions in their own eyes, the children of Halifax 
answer this call to service by offering their abiding love and pledging 
anew their faithful loyalty. Their maternal hymn that is heard in 
the distance serves as a benediction of increased pov^er to 

The Spirit of the Roanoke, who gladly accepts this expression of 
devotion from her people.] 

Halifax 

[Tune: Materna.] 

Halifax, Halifax, 

Beloved County free. 

Behold thy children come today 

Love-gifts to offer thee. 

We blend our voices one and all 



TilK Sl'IlM'l' OF THE KoAXOKE 

In simple harmony, 

That young may know and old recall 

Thy glorious history. 

Thy liable sons and daughters fair 

Oppressed on every hand, 

Found here within thy circling arins 

This good and pleasant land. 

They loved thee then, we love thee now, 

Our faithfulness we'll prove; 

We pledge anew our loyalty 

And our abiding love. 

Oh, may we ever faithful be 

To all we hold most dear, 

Those principles of liberty 

By ivhich we are knoum here. 

We prize sweet freedom's gifts for which 

Our sons and fathers fought. 

Their 7nany sacrifices, too 

For peace so dearly bought. 

Through tribulations we have come 
Guided by God's own hand 
To do His will and plant the cross 
Of Christ in this new land. 
That all the world beholding us 
Their hearts to Him might bring. 
And serve Him too, the risen Lord 
Our Saviour, and our King. 



Proudly I stand, the voice of a people, 
Pledging its all for the forces of rijiht. 
Tenderly cherish the services nnidered. 
Wondrously glad for its vision and might. 

.l.s the Spirit of the Koanoke bids New Day and Progress work 
out the visio7is in their own eyes, the music swells into a sweeping 
strain, suggesting the lure of the Inland Voices calling the Roanoke 
from her infinite surging. The witchery of the Voices becomes more 
jn'onounced as their luring song dniirs nearer.] 



xl Pageant of Halifax County History 77 

Lure of the Inland Voices 

Willow-fringed and violet ways 

Lure thee from thy surging. 

The cool hidden brakes where the wild ducks hie, 

The limitless stretches of earth and sky, 

The manifold harvests the breezes sway, 

And the humming of industry night and day. 

Unseen springs whence ye have come 

Lure thee from thy surging. 

[As the Spirit of the Roanoke listens wistfulhj at the last strains of 
the Inland Voices, she stirs out of her reverij and stepping forward 
expectantly speaks.] 



But, [pause] come to me, Gleaming Waters, 

I hear the far call of the sea! 

Far beyond the unmeasured horizon 

The bold waves are yearning for me. 

Come away! Away! 

No longer delay! 

I hear the far call and I gladsomely fly 

Toward the ultimate beckoning sea. 

[As the Spirit of the Roanoke answers the call of the sea, the Water 
Sprites give the Dance of the Gleaming Waters arid dance gaily off. 
The glints of gold in their blue-green robes foretell a future of 
promise and brightness.] 

[After The Epilogue is spoken and the Spirit of the Roanoke 
with her attendant Water-Sprites have departed, a chorus of 
voices is heard singing America's Message, Wake all Ye 
Nations and America in unison, ending urith the Star Spangled 
Banner as a grand finale.] 

Wake, All Ye Nations! 

Wake, all ye nations! A new song is ringing, 
With Hope's golden message eager winging. 

Rouse ye, rouse ye\ 

Come rally to the call 
Of world-wide fellowship, the brotherhood of (dl\ 



The Spirit of the Eoakoke 

Skies flash the signal; the trumpets are sounding; 
The roll-call of millions is resounding; 

Arm then, Arm thenl 

N^or let the echo cease 
Of Freedom's battle cry to win eternal peace. 

America 

My country 'tis of thee, 
Street land of liberty, 

Of thee I sing; 
Land ivhere my fathers died; 
Land of the pilgrim's pride; 
From every mountain side 

Let Freedom ring! 

Our father's God! to thee, 
Aidhor of liberty. 

To thee we sing; 
Long may our hind J)e brigJd 
With Freedom's holy light; 
Protect us by thy might, 

Great God, our King] 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



014 419 853 



